Savour the South in Southland

As New Zealand’s ultimate nature and wildlife destination, Southland’s scenery spans lush rainforests, fertile farmlands, and rugged coastlines. Surrounded by ocean and pasture, it really is the land of plenty, the ultimate Surf’n’Turf destination, if you will. Enjoy succulent kaimoana straight from the ocean. Watch that fish you reeled in off the coast of Rakiura Stewart Island be transformed into a mouth-watering dish right before your eyes, or take your pick from the exceptional tasting grass-fed lamb, prime pasture-fed beef, and the finest venison. Southland has something for you!

The mysterious Cheese Roll is a local tradition that is a must-try for any traveller to Southland. It’s not called “Southern Sushi” for nothing; the humble cheese roll is a delicacy that requires finesse, an often-secret recipe, and hands well-trained in the art of the roll. There are a lot of different recipes floating around, anywhere from the classic cheese roll to a cheese roll with crayfish, stuffed with chorizo, made with sheep cheese, or even deep-fried! Try a Southland Cheese Roll – you’re worth it.

Bluff oysters, Tio Paruparu, are reputed to be the best in the world. Originating in the pristine, cool waters of the Foveaux Strait, one of the few natural oyster beds in the world, these delicate and delicious shellfish are dredged along the coast of Southland. Bluff oysters are known for their unique flavour and are meatier than their cousins around New Zealand. They are arguably best eaten fresh, raw, and straight from the shell, but are also delicious battered, served Kilpatrick, or in a seafood chowder. There’s no wrong way to eat a bluffie!

The lush rich soils provide an abundance of local seasonal food. Many cafés and restaurants make an effort to support local businesses by creating dishes that are fresh and sustainably produced. Swedes, oats, venison, and lamb are staples to look out for, while the infamous Hokonui Moonshine should not be missed. Experience the taste of Southland by visiting farms, roadside stalls, local restaurants, farmers’ markets, and products from artisan producers.

Perhaps the best way to discover all that Southland has to offer is to go on a selfdrive foodie road trip. Besides experiencing exquisite Southern cuisine, you’ll also discover spectacular landscapes, friendly locals, and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Embrace an unforgettable journey across the stunning, dramatic landscapes that shape the region, with plenty of stops to tickle your tastebuds. You are going to love every moment of this treasured piece of New Zealand.

Bluff oysters, Stewart Island salmon, and tender Fiordland venison, Southland’s ingredients provide a gastronomic experience like no other. What better way to celebrate this than by attending one of the foodie events? From the Longest Lunch Te Anau, the Riverton Harvest Heritage Festival, and the Southland Beer, Wine & Wild Food Festival in March to the regionwide festival of Savour the South in April, these events celebrate the tastiest dishes and drops and shine a light on this beautiful region’s hospitality.

There’s amazing food to be found all over the region – discover a new café, pub, or restaurant down the main street or off the beaten track. They say, “a recipe has no soul – the cook puts the soul into the dish”, and in Southland, you will discover talented chefs who seamlessly pair tradition with modern techniques and trends. Throughout the South, amazing food producers, restaurants, bakeries, food trucks, and more serve up innovative tastes and textures.